Double-height ceilings, commonly found in museums and industrial warehouses to accommodate large objects, offer both aesthetic and functional advantages. This concept seamlessly translates to residential designs, where these ceilings are often strategically placed near social areas or stairs. By doing so, they enhance the overall space, increase illumination, and add an impressive sense of height. In this context, we present examples to illustrate how to maximize the benefits of double-height ceilings in your home.
In architecture, double-height ceilings refer to spaces where the distance between the floor and the ceiling is notably greater, often double, compared to the standard room height. Typically, houses have standard ceilings ranging from 2.5 to 2.7 meters. In contrast, rooms featuring double-height ceilings can reach heights of 4.5 meters or more, creating a more expansive and visually striking interior.
This solution can be challenging for several reasons, such as achieving visual balance in the space's decoration, which can seem disproportionately empty, or the increased cooling costs because there is more air to cool within the same space. Despite these challenges, there are plenty of advantages and ways to take advantage of the offered height. Below, we have gathered some tips and ways to compose these spaces to make the most of the environment and keep it comfortable.
Connection Between Different Levels
One of the best ways to take advantage of double-height ceilings is by creating a connection between the different levels of the house. This connection can take the form of vertical circulation, such as a staircase, incorporating body movement as a key element in spatial perception. Alternatively, mezzanines provide another avenue for visual communication between distinct levels. These techniques offer diverse perspectives from within the same space, directing the gaze upwards to the sky or treetops, views that are not always visible from the ground floor.
Natural Lighting and Ventilation
Elevating or designing openings in a zenithal manner enhances the penetration of high-quality natural light. By crafting designs that allow for indirect light entry, a variety of tones and sensations can be achieved throughout the day, aligning with the solar cycle and strengthening the connection between the interior and exterior spaces. Additionally, windows positioned at higher levels aid in cross-ventilation, effectively maintaining a comfortable temperature without the reliance on mechanical equipment.
Storage
Filling the voids in double-height ceilings can be challenging, but an effective and practical solution is to add more shelves or expand the size of existing bookshelves. These elements serve multiple purposes, such as creating a compact library, providing exhibition surfaces, and offering spaces for storing plants and other objects.
Contrasting Compositions
Another approach to harmonize various heights is to leverage the high ceiling by incorporating different textures to delineate the levels. This can be achieved through a combination of diverse materials and techniques. Adding landscaping in the upper portion enhances the aesthetic appeal and improves user comfort through biophilia, providing various benefits.
